A stricken horse was saved by firefighters after it was temporarily unable to walk.

Firefighters had to use a hoist to pick up the three-year-old as it could no longer stand due to swollen lymph glands in its legs.

Still in the hoist, it was then helped to walk around the paddock so the lymph glands could drain and the swelling could subside.

Crews from Banstead and Esher fire stations, along with a specialist animal rescue unit from Painshill, spent about three hours helping the horse at Courtlands Livery Stables in Banstead on Sunday (February 19).

Eight firefighters carried the adolescent – which firefighters believe had only been at the stables for three days after being flown over from Holland – into strops, from which it was then picked up by a crane.

Elevating the horse with its legs dangling down allowed the swollen lymph glands to drain, a firefighter from Banstead explained.


Pic credit: @AlanDay10

“The horse is mobile and walking now, so it was a successful day,” the spokesman added.

The Epsom Guardian has been unable to get in contact with Courtlands Livery Stables.

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